These are the best VPNs for Netflix

These are the best VPNs for Netflix

Netflix has well over 5,700 TV shows and movies in its library, but it doesn't make all of this content available to its users around the world. Subscribers in the UK, for example, only get access to 2,967 titles, while those in Germany are limited to 1,785.

Using a Netflix VPN, you can unlock the full potential of your subscription and increase the amount of content you have available. All you need to do is subscribe to a VPN that works with Netflix, connect to a server in the United States and you can use your current subscription to watch the complete Netflix catalog.

But there is a catch (of course). Netflix actively blocks VPNs and dedicates significant resources to making sure they cannot be used for this purpose. There are only a handful of VPNs willing to enter this perpetual game of cat and mouse.

ProPrivacy tests VPNs on a daily basis to check if they work with Netflix. We use a set of automated tests and our in house team of researchers manually verify the results.

The best Netflix VPNs (June, 2020):

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a reliable VPN that provides excellent stability and connection speeds on its Netflix-ready servers

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ExpressVPN remains one of the best-known names in the industry and always seems to stay one step ahead of Netflix.

One of the standout features that makes ExpressVPN a great choice for Netflix users is the built-in speed testing tool.

The ExpressVPN apps for Windows and Mac allow you to run tests on server locations to check the latency and download speed of each VPN server. The software then ranks them by Speed Index. The higher the number, the better the performance.

This is incredibly useful for Netflix streaming. All you need to do run the Speed Test and choose the US server location with the highest Speed Index.

Most people simply want access to the largest content library, which is Netflix USA, but ExpressVPN also does a great job at unlocking regional libraries like Netflix UK, Canada, France and Japan. This is useful if you are traveling and want to continue watching content in your home country or simply want to your fix of anime.

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Private Internet Access is a VPN provider that is often praised by Reddit users. The VPN is not only strong on privacy and security but also exceptional when it comes to unblocking regional content. With PIA you get servers in 33 countries, and all those servers provide lightning-fast speeds for streaming content. The US servers will let you access US Netflix, as well as services like HBO Go and hulu. Plus, PIA will allow you to unblock BBC iPlayer too.

PIA has excellent apps for all platforms that are very easy to use. And, despite having a low learning curve, the VPN has plenty of advanced security features including OpenVPN encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscated servers. We like this VPN’s customizability, and the fact that it has live chat support. You can test it thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. A cheap way to watch more Netflix.

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CyberGhost VPN is unique because it guarantees access to Netflix US when connected to one of its 'streaming optimized servers'. We haven't tested this guarantee out, but that's because it always seems to work.

Unlike some other providers on the list, CyberGhost VPN doesn't offer access to all the regional libraries. At the moment, it officially supports the United States, Germany, France and the United Kingdom.

All you need to do is connect to the US streaming server for Netflix and this easy-to-use service automatically connects you to one of 40+ servers specially reserved for Netflix. This stops you from connecting to a server that is congested. CyberGhost’s Netflix servers average at 30 Mbps; which is good enough to stream in 4K. You can even try this service for 45 whole days - thanks to CyberGhost’s industry-leading money-back guarantee.

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Surfshark is new on the VPN scene, but it has hit the ground running. Based in the British Virgin Islands, Surfshark is a no-logs VPN service with great technical security and superb 24/7 support. At our recent ProPrivacy.com Awards - which have quickly become the industry gold standard for recognizing achievement in the VPN industry- Surfshark won the Best Newcomer award. Read on to find out why Surfshark was crowned Best Newcomer at this year's exclusive Las Vegas event!

Surfshark unblocks a wide selection of streaming services, including Netflix in 16 different countries. Which is quite some achievement. In our tests, it unblocked US Netflix and BBC iPlayer as advertised.

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VyprVPN officially provides support for the US Netflix catalog. And the good news is that you can access Netflix using any of VyprVPN's US or UK server locations. This means you have the choice of both East and West coast servers for hooking up faster speeds depending on where you live.

The VPN software is easy to use and is available for all platforms, and privacy with this service is superb; so you won't need to worry about anyone finding out. When we tested VyprVPN's US servers speeds, it averaged at around 45 Mbps. That is really fast for streaming in HD.

This VPN has a competitive price point if purchased annually, which is ideal if Netflix US or UK is your main desire. Finally, the VPN has a generous 30-day money-back guarantee to test the service risk-free.

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ExpressVPN remains one of the best-known names in the industry and always seems to stay one step ahead of Netflix.

One of the standout features that makes ExpressVPN a great choice for Netflix users is the built-in speed testing tool.

The ExpressVPN apps for Windows and Mac allow you to run tests on server locations to check the latency and download speed of each VPN server. The software then ranks them by Speed Index. The higher the number, the better the performance.

This is incredibly useful for Netflix streaming. All you need to do run the Speed Test and choose the US server location with the highest Speed Index.

Most people simply want access to the largest content library, which is Netflix USA, but ExpressVPN also does a great job at unlocking regional libraries like Netflix UK, Canada, France and Japan. This is useful if you are traveling and want to continue watching content in your home country or simply want to your fix of anime.

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Unblocks

Private Internet Access is a VPN provider that is often praised by Reddit users. The VPN is not only strong on privacy and security but also exceptional when it comes to unblocking regional content. With PIA you get servers in 33 countries, and all those servers provide lightning-fast speeds for streaming content. The US servers will let you access US Netflix, as well as services like HBO Go and hulu. Plus, PIA will allow you to unblock BBC iPlayer too.

PIA has excellent apps for all platforms that are very easy to use. And, despite having a low learning curve, the VPN has plenty of advanced security features including OpenVPN encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscated servers. We like this VPN’s customizability, and the fact that it has live chat support. You can test it thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. A cheap way to watch more Netflix.

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CyberGhost VPN is unique because it guarantees access to Netflix US when connected to one of its 'streaming optimized servers'. We haven't tested this guarantee out, but that's because it always seems to work.

Unlike some other providers on the list, CyberGhost VPN doesn't offer access to all the regional libraries. At the moment, it officially supports the United States, Germany, France and the United Kingdom.

All you need to do is connect to the US streaming server for Netflix and this easy-to-use service automatically connects you to one of 40+ servers specially reserved for Netflix. This stops you from connecting to a server that is congested. CyberGhost’s Netflix servers average at 30 Mbps; which is good enough to stream in 4K. You can even try this service for 45 whole days - thanks to CyberGhost’s industry-leading money-back guarantee.

Pricing

Available on

Unblocks

Surfshark is new on the VPN scene, but it has hit the ground running. Based in the British Virgin Islands, Surfshark is a no-logs VPN service with great technical security and superb 24/7 support. At our recent ProPrivacy.com Awards - which have quickly become the industry gold standard for recognizing achievement in the VPN industry- Surfshark won the Best Newcomer award. Read on to find out why Surfshark was crowned Best Newcomer at this year's exclusive Las Vegas event!

Surfshark unblocks a wide selection of streaming services, including Netflix in 16 different countries. Which is quite some achievement. In our tests, it unblocked US Netflix and BBC iPlayer as advertised.

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VyprVPN officially provides support for the US Netflix catalog. And the good news is that you can access Netflix using any of VyprVPN's US or UK server locations. This means you have the choice of both East and West coast servers for hooking up faster speeds depending on where you live.

The VPN software is easy to use and is available for all platforms, and privacy with this service is superb; so you won't need to worry about anyone finding out. When we tested VyprVPN's US servers speeds, it averaged at around 45 Mbps. That is really fast for streaming in HD.

This VPN has a competitive price point if purchased annually, which is ideal if Netflix US or UK is your main desire. Finally, the VPN has a generous 30-day money-back guarantee to test the service risk-free.

Other VPNs that work with Netflix

Below is a list of other VPNs that we have confirmed work with Netflix but didn't quite make our top 5 list:

Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is a well-known VPN that has been downloaded millions of times. But to unlock Netflix, you will need to splash out and get a subscription. The service is very fast thanks to its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol. Admittedly, there is some risk that comes from trusting closed source software. But if you are after Netflix US - and aren't concerned about much else - Hotspot Shield is an okay option. For strong privacy and Netflix, please look elsewhere.

Windscribe

Windscribe is a well established VPN from Canada that has a good reputation. It is a great all-rounder that has servers located in over 50 countries, and it recently won the ProPrivacy Award for Best Free VPN last year in Vegas. However, if you want to access Netflix USA you will need a pro account that costs around $4 per month. If you pay you should have a choice a choice of catalogs from around the world using its specialist Windflix servers.

Torguard

Torguard is a VPN based in the US that has servers in over 50 countries. It is primarily aimed at people who want to BitTorrent and it keeps zero logs. It also works with Netflix US. However, it does come at a cost. On top of the premium plan, you will also need to buy a dedicated static US IP address. This makes it one of the more expensive options for accessing Netflix. However, if you love this provider - the option is there.

VyprVPN

VyprVPN is superb tech from Switzerland that runs on a Tier-1 network of servers owned by its parent company Golden Frog. This lets it provide fast connections that are perfect for streaming. VyprVPN will not let you watch a massive cross-section of catalogs like some other VPNs, but it does work with US Netflix for the time being. However, in the past it has lost access to Netflix from time to time - which is why it isn't considered good enough to make our best 5.

How to unblock Netflix

Unblocking Netflix to get more content is actually extremely easy. All you need is a compatible VPN and then follow the steps below:

Sign up for one of the Netflix VPNs listed in this guide.

When choosing who to sign up to, it's important to remember that very few VPNs actually work with Netflix anymore, so your choice is limited. All the providers we cover in this guide have been thoroughly tested and are confirmed to work.

Download the VPN software.

This step is fairly self-explanatory. Once you have signed up to your chosen VPN service, they will provide you with a link where you can download their VPN client.

Install the VPN client and log in.

Installation may differ slightly depending on the VPN you are using. But once you have downloaded the client, you should be able to simply follow the installation wizard to get it running.

Once installation has finished, run the software and log in using the credentials you created when signing up.

Need help? If you require further help with installation, we offer a number of platform specific installation guides if you get stuck, including: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android and Smart TV.

Connect to a VPN server.

In your VPN client, click on the server you would like to connect to. For example, if you wanted to unblock US Netflix, choose a US one.

Some providers, but not all, list speciality servers that must be used for specific tasks, like unblocking Netflix. If you're unsure which server to connect to, you can ask your VPN provider through live chat on their website.

Did you know? Although international catalogs like the UK and Canada have surpassed the number of titles in the United States, US Netflix is still the most desired option as quantity doesn't always equal quality.

Log in and start streaming.

Once you're connected to a compatible server, all you need to do is log in with your credentials and start streaming.

Please note: There is no need to create a new account to unblock Netflix in other territories.

FAQs

Will I get in trouble for using a VPN with Netflix?

No, VPNs are used by businesses and individuals to gain digital privacy and are not illegal in any country. We recommend checking out our is Netflix illegal? guide for a look at the potential repercussions of using a VPN with Netflix.

Can I get a free VPN that will work with Netflix?

Yes... Well sort of. Free VPNs are restrictive, but there is a way to get a premium VPN for free. Check out our free VPN for Netflix hack to find out how.

Does any VPN work with Netflix?

Most VPNs do not work with Netflix, because they do not spend resources on providing IPs that are not blacklisted by Netflix. Of the VPN tech that does unblock Netflix they

What to do if a Netflix VPN isn&rsquo;t working

There are a few things you could try if your Netflix VPN isn't working. Try a different location, or if that doesn't work, get in touch with the provider. For additional help, we cover in-depth troubleshooting tips in our Netflix VPN not working guide.

Why does Netflix restrict content by regions?

Netflix would prefer to show all the movies and TV shows in its library in every country. However, those who hold the copyright can force Netflix's hand and dictate the territories they want their content to be shown in. This is typically done to protect other licensing agreements they may have in other countries. As a result, each country will have a slightly different Netflix library. To learn how to stream this content, check out our guide to changing your Netflix region.

Is Netflix blocking VPNs?

Yes, when using a VPN for Netflix became popular, it didn’t take long for the copyright holders to put pressure on Netflix to crack down on subscribers using VPNs. However, Netflix has an obligation to its shareholders and it would not make good business sense to start cutting off paying customers. Instead, it will just prevent you from streaming any titles until you disconnect from your VPN. For more infromation on Netflix's VPN ban and how to get around it. Check out our guide on the Netflix VPN ban fixes.

Do VPN browser extensions work with Netflix?

Some VPNs do have extensions for Chrome and Firefox, and sometimes these are proxy extensions (that can be used to unblock films & TV shows). However, these kinds of proxies tend not to unblock Netflix on their own. For this reason, you will need to use the Netflix VPN Google extension (or Firefox VPN extension) in combination with the full VPN client to get it to work.

How do I speed up my Netflix VPN?

If your Netflix VPN is slow, there is little you can do to change this, meaning that you may need to ditch your service in favor of a faster one from this list. However, the level of encryption that is selected within the VPN client could be influencing your speeds. Many VPNs allow you to alter the kind of encryption protocol you use, and for accessing Netflix, it is better to opt for either PPTP, OpenVPN UDP, or IKEv2. If you are experiencing problems, open your VPN’s settings and try out the different encryption options. If one works better for you; use it! However, remember that if you change onto PPTP, you will not be gaining strong digital privacy (for strong digital privacy stick to OpenVPN UDP).

Robert Weir

I am using NordVPN and reside outside the USA. I have setup a US based Server, as your article suggests. When I try to get Netflix it refuses my sign up because I do not have a US Zip Code. Is there a work around for this?

Douglas Crawford
replied to Robert Weir

Hi Robert. You do not need to sign-up for Netflix from a US address. As long as you are using a VPN which isn't blocked by Netflix, all you need do to access the US Netflix catalog is connect to a US server before visiting Netflix. You can sign-in from an account created anywhere in the world.

Someone

Emma Ryan

I use Purevpn German Dedicated IP. But I havent got the subscription of Netflix German. Could you please tell me how to get it.
But I have subscription to the other channels of german like ZDF, ARD and its dedicated IP works fine on them.

Douglas Crawford
replied to Emma Ryan

Hi Emma. Netflix doesn't care where your account is registered. If you have an account for Netflix (from anywhere) and change your IP to a German IP address (assuming you use a service which not blocked by Netflix) then you will see the German Netflix catalog when you login to the service.